The French town of Dunkerque has been celebrating its annual carnival since the 17th century. Back then, it was a send-off for the port's fishermen who were soon to depart for up to six months.
These days, it's a three month long extravaganza of music, balls, costumes, and festivities. The carnival is a costume event, so get ready to masquerade! The traditional costume requirement is for men to dress as women. Women--and shy men!--can disguise themselves however they'd like, as long as it's colorful!
The carnival runs from January to March each year. The events rotate between different places in the town each week. All the Dunkerquois (unhabitants of Dunkerque) gathered in the streets and sing carnival songs lead by a brassband. People walked hand to hand, creating "human lines" that are called "bande". The parade ends up on the city square for the "rigodon", the final uproar.
Sources:
http://www.nordmag.fr/nord_pas_de_calais/dunkerque/carnaval_dunkerque.htm
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